Question 2: As the video clip opens, the class is working together to solve a subtraction problem that requires regrouping. In addition to modeling the steps for regrouping on the white board, the teacher is having the students recite a poem as a mnemonic device to reinforce the steps. She then has students work on additional problems at their desks using base-10 blocks. How does the use of these manipulatives strengthen a student’s ability to compute?
The use of manipulatives allows students to visually, as well as hands-on, work through each step of solving a subtraction problem. When students work with manipulatives, it assists them in understanding each step and what actually happens when subtracting two numbers. Using manipulatives when learning a skills, allows students to improve their knowledge of the skill and eventually complete the problems without the use of objects.
The use of manipulatives allows students to visually, as well as hands-on, work through each step of solving a subtraction problem. When students work with manipulatives, it assists them in understanding each step and what actually happens when subtracting two numbers. Using manipulatives when learning a skills, allows students to improve their knowledge of the skill and eventually complete the problems without the use of objects.